German Program

Study Abroad

Our program provides a broad academic curriculum in the language, history, culture and literature of German-speaking Europe.

German-speaking countries of Europe have made a vital contribution to Western civilization. At present, German is spoken by approximately 90 million people in Austria, Germany and Switzerland, as well as in other countries of East Central Europe. German is recognized as one of the official languages of the European Community. In addition, German immigration, culture and language have very strong roots in the U.S., particularly in the Upper Midwest. Germans constitute the second largest ethnic minority in the U.S., and Germany is a major international trading partner of South Dakota after Canada.

By completing a one-year sequence in German (GER 101/102), you will fulfill both your Goal #4 (Humanities) and #7 (Cultural Diversity) general education requirements at the same time. By completing four semesters of German, you will fulfill the language requirement for the Bachelor of Arts degree. Completing just 18 hours (including the first two years) will grant you a minor in German. Completing 36 hours will grant you a major in German. Email languages@usd.edu for more information if double majoring.